GACHAGUA BLOCKS VIDEO RECORDING DURING HEATED U.S. Q&A SESSION

Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has come under renewed criticism after banning video recording during a question-and-answer session with Kenyans living abroad.

The incident occurred at a town hall event in Washington, D.C., where Gachagua had been scheduled to engage with members of the Kenyan diaspora. Prior to the Q&A session, the event moderator declared that video recording would not be permitted during the question segment. No official reason was given for the decision, and it remains unclear whether the restriction originated from Gachagua’s team or event organisers.

Shortly after this directive, the event’s live stream was abruptly terminated as audience members prepared to pose their questions. Despite this, the session went on, but only featured pre-screened questions, limiting spontaneous audience interaction.

The restriction comes at a time when Gachagua is facing intensified scrutiny over his recent rhetoric, particularly comments seen as promoting ethnic-based politics. His July 27 engagement with Kenyans in Baltimore saw young diaspora citizens question his divisive language and political direction ahead of the 2027 General Election.

Valentine Wanjiru Githae, speaking on behalf of the youth-led 625 Movement, challenged Gachagua over his 'Murima First' ideology, which she argued reinforces tribal entitlement. She also criticised his messaging as outdated and disconnected from the Gen Z electorate.

In his response, Gachagua defended his remarks, insisting that the Mt. Kenya region faces systemic exclusion and that his advocacy seeks to protect its residents. He praised the diaspora youth as “tribeless and fearless,” stating they are key to reshaping Kenya’s political future.

The controversial meeting is part of a wider U.S. tour launched by Gachagua in June under the banner of his new political outfit, the Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP). The tour includes scheduled stops in Dallas, Seattle, Boston, and Baltimore, and aims to mobilise diaspora support and court potential investors ahead of 2027.

Gachagua’s silence on the video ban has only fuelled criticism over transparency and media freedom, raising questions about his openness to accountability in public forums abroad.